Chapter 24: Chapter 24
A Year of Growth
Another year passed in the blink of an eye. It was now Konoha's 54th year, and Naruto had turned six years old. Over the past year, Naruto had maintained his refined and gentle demeanor, earning a subtle shift in how the villagers perceived him. While some still harbored hostility, the outright malice had faded. Many now simply ignored him, while others—especially the elderly and children—had begun to warm up to him.
Naruto's efforts to help the villagers had not gone unnoticed. He often assisted in finding lost pets, delivered food to the elderly, and even helped with small chores around the village. His handsome and elegant appearance made it hard for people to dislike him, and he had even gained a few young admirers.
The Ninja School Admission
One evening, the Third Hokage arrived at Naruto's home unannounced. He carried a letter in his hand and a gentle smile on his face.
"Naruto, do you want to go to the ninja school? Here's your admission letter," Hiruzen said, placing the envelope on the table.
Naruto picked up the letter, his expression a mix of surprise and confusion. "So I'm already six years old?" he murmured.
From the books he had read about the world of the living, Naruto knew that birthdays were supposed to be special occasions—days filled with joy, surrounded by friends and family. But for Naruto, his birthday had always been just another day. He didn't even know when it was or who his parents were. The thought brought a pang of loneliness, but he quickly pushed it aside.
"I'll go," Naruto said, his voice filled with determination. "I'll definitely become an excellent ninja—no, I'll become Hokage!"
Hiruzen chuckled, puffing on his pipe. "I believe you can do it, Naruto."
Naruto's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I'm sure I'll meet many new friends at the ninja school."
Seeing Naruto's usually calm and composed demeanor give way to childlike enthusiasm, Hiruzen couldn't help but smile. This was the Naruto he wanted to see—a child growing up happily in Konoha's embrace, inheriting the Will of Fire and striving to protect the village.
This was the Naruto Minato and Kushina would have wanted.
The Third Hokage's Reflections
As Hiruzen watched Naruto's excitement, a sense of pride and relief washed over him. Under his guidance, Naruto was growing into a fine young shinobi, one who embodied the values of Konoha. The guilt he had carried for years—the guilt of failing Minato and Kushina—began to ease.
He truly was Konoha's greatest Hokage.
"Naruto, you'll form bonds with your classmates at the ninja school. Together, you'll all grow into excellent shinobi," Hiruzen said, his voice warm and grandfatherly. "The day after tomorrow is enrollment day. Don't stay up too late these next few days. Get plenty of rest so you can make a good impression on your teachers."
Naruto nodded eagerly, tears glistening in his eyes. "Thank you, Third Hokage Grandpa. I won't disappoint you."
He hugged Hiruzen tightly, his small frame trembling with emotion. Hiruzen patted his back gently, whispering, "Naruto, I have high hopes for you. You'll definitely become the future Hokage."
Unbeknownst to Hiruzen, Naruto's expression shifted for a brief moment, his eyes cold and indifferent.
Hokage? Naruto thought. That's not what I'm after.
The Sealed Space
Later that night, Naruto entered the sealed space. The familiar sound of dripping water greeted him as he opened his eyes to a transformed environment. The once-dark and oppressive space was now filled with vibrant, sci-fi-like decorations. The walls were adorned with posters of Pokémon and mechs, and colorful lights flickered everywhere.
In the center of the room, Kyuubi sat at a glowing computer, his massive form hunched over the screen. The room was cluttered with gaming paraphernalia—action figures, posters, and even a bed covered in Pokémon-themed bedding.
"Tick tock," Naruto muttered, stepping closer to the iron gate. "Kyuubi, how are you doing?"
Kyuubi didn't look up from the screen. "Hmph, I'm fine," he grumbled, his claws tapping furiously on the keyboard.
Naruto sighed. The once-mighty Nine-Tails had been reduced to an internet-addicted shut-in. It was almost pitiful.
"Are you enjoying the game?" Naruto asked, trying to sound casual.
Kyuubi paused briefly, glancing at Naruto. "What do you want? You never come here just to chat."
Naruto smiled. "You're right. I need your help."
Kyuubi's ears twitched. "What kind of help?"
"I want to learn ninjutsu," Naruto said. "Specifically, the Multiple Shadow Clone Technique."
Kyuubi snorted. "Why should I help you? What's in it for me?"
Naruto leaned against the iron gate, his expression calm. "I've been reading up on your history. You've been sealed for decades, changing hosts multiple times. Each of those hosts had to learn ninjutsu from scratch, and you must have picked up a few things along the way. Teach me, and I'll download two new games for you."
Kyuubi's eyes narrowed. He hated being manipulated, but the offer was tempting. "Fine," he growled. "But the Multiple Shadow Clone Technique isn't easy. You'll need at least three hand seals to—"
"Deal," Naruto interrupted, his smile widening.
Kyuubi blinked, then let out an exasperated sigh. "Hiss, why do I feel like I've been tricked? Three games would have been better."
The Road Ahead
As Naruto left the sealed space, he felt a sense of satisfaction. With Kyuubi's cooperation, he was one step closer to mastering the techniques he needed. The Multiple Shadow Clone Technique would be invaluable for his training, allowing him to accelerate his growth exponentially.
But Naruto knew the road ahead was long and fraught with challenges. The ninja school would be a new battlefield, one where he would need to navigate friendships, rivalries, and the ever-watchful eyes of the village leadership.
For now, though, he focused on the immediate future. The ninja school awaited, and with it, new opportunities to grow stronger.